Respecting human rights
We are committed to upholding social and environmental standards, and we expect the same from our suppliers. Our goal is to build long-term partnerships based on respect and fairness.
Social
Supply chain
Due diligence in the supply chain
For Miele, taking responsibility along the supply chain means upholding social and environmental standards, identifying risks at an early stage and strengthening human rights. National and international guidelines, including the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG), provide the framework. Effective risk management, our Supplier Code of Conduct and systematic supplier management ensure fair and sustainable partnerships.
How we train
Raising awareness of human rights and providing comprehensive information form the basis of our work in procurement. Regular training sessions and a company-wide information portal support ongoing process improvement. Our own Supplier Code of Conduct sets clear expectations for our suppliers, covering working conditions, environmental standards and respect for human rights. In this way, we aim to promote responsible procurement worldwide.
If an issue occurs
If environmental or human rights violations such as child labor or forced labor are suspected, a defined complaint procedure in accordance with Section 8 of the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) applies. Reports can be submitted confidentially. If there is an indication of a breach of our Supplier Code of Conduct, a multi-stage escalation process is initiated, which can ultimately lead to the suspension of the supplier. The aim is to identify risks early, act consistently and safeguard our ethical standards throughout the supply chain.
Further information on our complaints mechanism is available here.
Our supplier management
Long-term partnerships play a key role in ensuring the quality of Miele’s products and services and form a strong foundation for improving social and environmental aspects of the supply chain. Our supplier management approach incorporates social and environmental criteria, environmental management and compliance. New and existing suppliers undergo audits and are assessed regularly, including with regard to environmental standards such as REACH, RoHS and WEEE. If deviations from our requirements occur, our procurement teams work together with suppliers to find a solution. If no verifiable improvement is achieved, the collaboration may be terminated.
Our risk management
Miele carefully reviews the origin and procurement of raw materials. Sustainability-related risk management in line with the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG) helps identify and assess human rights and environmental risks along the supply chain. Our suppliers are contractually obligated to meet all due-diligence requirements. If violations occur, graduated measures apply, up to and including the termination of the partnership. Findings from risk analyses are incorporated into preventive and corrective actions, and the process is reviewed regularly and adapted to new legal requirements.
Our Supplier Code of Conduct
The Miele Supplier Code of Conduct (SCoC) sets clear requirements on human rights, environmental protection, ethics and due-diligence obligations. Suppliers commit to complying with these standards as well as all applicable national and international regulations, including the ILO core labor standards. If risks are suspected within the raw-material supply chain, targeted analyses are carried out. Indirect suppliers are also expected to pass these standards on. We support anti-corruption principles and expect the same from our suppliers. Violations may lead to the termination of the partnership. In addition, suppliers can contact an independent ombudsperson.
More detailed insights can be found in our sustainability report
Additional focus topics
Employees
